This year’s Society of Master Saddlers’ National Saddlery Competition saw a prestigious Fellowship awarded to one of the leading figures in the industry.

Held at Saddlers’ Hall in London and supported by The Worshipful Company of Saddlers, the event provided the ideal occasion to present Laurence Pearman with his Fellowship and this was presented by the guest of honour HRH The Princess Royal.

Society of Master Saddlers’ Chief Executive, Hazel Morley described Laurence as a man who has saddlery running through his veins.

Said Hazel: “He is one of only a handful of people who have served as President on two occasions, in 2004 and 2012.

“Laurence is a Liveryman of the Saddlers’ Company, Chairman of the South West Region of the SMS and gives up his time to sit on many committees to help develop saddlery and saddle fitting.

“He is a great supporter of the apprenticeships having trained many of them over the years. He regularly lectures and assesses for the Society’s saddle fitting course as well as assisting with the saddlery skill assessments and flocking qualification.”

Added a delighted Laurence, owner of Cirencester Saddlery: “I couldn’t believe it when I realised Hazel was talking about me. It is just fantastic and a very special honour to receive.

“I knew absolutely nothing about it. The award was a very well-kept secret and is just brilliant.”